Council approves special-use permit for mixed-use building at Patterson and Libby despite neighborhood concerns

The Richmond City Council voted unanimously to approve a special-use permit allowing a partially four‑story mixed‑use building at the corner of Patterson and Libby avenues after a public hearing that drew opposition from nearby Westwood residents and support from the developer and city planning staff.

City planning director Kevin J. Vaughn told the council staff recommended approval and that the proposal aligns with the Richmond 300 plan; the Planning Commission also recommended support. "Staff has reviewed this and, has recommended its support," Vaughn said during the hearing.

The project seeks waivers to three zoning feature requirements: additional height (a partial fourth story that staff described as roughly 39 feet off Patterson and about 26 feet off Libby), a reduced front yard and authorization for outdoor dining on Libby. The applicant and ownership group told council the development would include 24 off‑street parking spaces behind the…